Firmino Hails ‘Differential’ Coutinho

Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino has hailed his partnership with compatriot Philippe Coutinho at Liverpool, describing his Seleção teammate as “a differential” in the Reds’ three pronged attack with Sadio Mane.

Speaking to the Independent, Firmino said, “It helps having Coutinho with me. He's a 'differential' who helps swing games. The fact we're together day to day at Liverpool means we have a good understanding, so we can use that in Brazil games.

“Coutinho is a friend and also a great player. He's got incredible passing ability; he knows how to put attackers in on goal. I think the Brazil system is similar to the one we use at Liverpool, with lots of movement, players open out wide and quality midfielders who join the attack and score goals.”

Now in his third season at Anfield, Firmino has settled into the Premier League very well and he believes his style is suited to England, “It's different: the game is quicker, but very physical at the same time.

“I think my game is suited to it because I'm fast and I know how to use my strength. My teammates play an important part in that, because we seek to complement each other's games.”